The Republican lawmaker from east Arkansas on Tuesday said he believed the "private option" lawmakers are considering was destined to worsen the fiscal outlook for the state. Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe has urged the Republican-led Legislature to approve the proposal, which is being considered as an alternative to expanding Medicaid's enrollment under the federal health care law.

Crawford said lawmakers should set aside the private option proposal and instead call on Congress to delay implementation of the federal health law.

The Republican leaders of the House and Senate say they support the private option proposal.